Limerick fire services issue warning over bonfires

Limerick’s fire services are jointly appealing to homeowners not to burn household rubbish on bonfires during the upcoming Halloween celebrations.

Limerick’s fire services are jointly appealing to homeowners not to burn household rubbish on bonfires during the upcoming Halloween celebrations.

Substantial costs were incurred last year as fire personnel responded to bonfire-related incidents across the city and county.

The uncontrolled burning of waste is illegal under the provisions of the Air Pollution Act and the Waste Management Act.

“Bonfires are an illegal, dangerous and costly tradition,” explained Carmel Kirby, Chief Fire Officer with the Limerick County Fire and Rescue Service.

“Bonfires are often built close to houses and other property, presenting risks to personal safety and property. Halloween is one the busiest times of the year for the fire services and responding to bonfire call outs creates a strain on existing resources,” she added.

Members of public are also being asked not to buy, use or supply fireworks.

“Illegal fireworks may be manufactured without safety standards and can cause serious damage to users, particularly children. Parents should monitor their children and ensure they do not play with fireworks. Throughout the country, every year children end up tragically injured and often scarred for life, after using illegal fireworks,” said Michael Ryan, chief fire officer with Limerick City Council.

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